Holiday spirit lives in East Carbon,Sunnyside

The holiday spirit is alive and well in East Carbon and Sunnyside, as recent supply trips from the Utah Food Bank have ensured that as many as 150 local families will have all the chow they need to finish out 2012.

In addition to the coverage provided by the Carbon branch of the bank, East Carbon City Treasurer Cheryl McFarland was contacted by a member of the Utah Food Bank who knew there was a need in East Carbon.

"It was so awesome, for something this great to just fall in our lap. A young woman named Camille Baker has family in the area and called wanting to help East Carbon and Sunnyside specifically. She asked if I could get some volunteers together and then she sent the first truck."

Starting in August, a truck loaded with goods began distributing food at the East Carbon Senior Center. During the first month, the truck brought enough food for 50 families and could have served 50 more, according to McFarland. When they returned the number climbed to 100 families served and in November 150 received a Thanksgiving bounty from the Utah Food Bank.

"They are so generous, each family received several bags of potatoes, a case of yogurt, a case of smoothies, a case of sausages, several sweet potato pies and two pound blocks of cheddar cheese," explained McFarland. "It has been a big success."

The city will continue to distribute food with the bank on the second Monday of the month at the East Carbon Senior Center.

"The service is free," concluded McFarland. "And there is no red tape. If you need food, you show up on the second Monday and we will be there. I also want to say that I am so proud of the volunteerism in this community. I never have any issues getting the 12 volunteers I need every month to make this program work."

In East Carbon those looking to donate to the local food bank can do so at Miners Trading through their Sharing Is Caring Program. There are prepackaged bags at the counter which can be purchased for $5. The bags are then delivered to the Carbon County Food Bank by Miners employees.